The leaves are falling, the wind is picking up, and days are getting shorter. Time to put away our shorts and T-shirts in exchange for warm winter gear. As we prepare ourselves for the colder months, it is important that we also prepare for the needs of our four-legged family members.
Chilly and wet weather causes changes in your dog’s routines and behaviors and brings a few special challenges. Here are some tips to make it through until spring.
A Warm Hang Out
As the mercury on the thermometer falls, make sure your dog has a toasty place to reside. Staying inside the house is ideal, but if you must leave your dog outside during the day, make sure he has a place to go to keep warm and stay out of the rain. This could be a covered space or doghouse. Warm blankets and bedding will help make his special spot comfy and cozy. Many dogs love to burrow themselves in blankets and towels, so give them plenty.
Grab Your Coat
Yes, dogs have built-in coats, but some seem more like windbreakers than parkas. Shorthaired and smaller dogs are more at risk when the temperature dips, so consider adding an extra layer to help them hold the heat in. Not only will a coat keep your dog warm, it will also keep the dew-soaked grass from wetting his undercoat. There are even rain jackets to help keep your pup dry during rainy day walks.
Burning Desires
Dogs love to sleep in warm spots, and they don’t always realize that a heat source can hurt them. If you use space heaters or a fireplace, be sure to cover or barricade them. Dogs and puppies love all the warmth and will try to get as close as possible. You don’t want them to get burned or to knock over the heater and cause a fire. It’s wise to use a crate or confinement area, like the kitchen or bedroom, to keep your dog safe during times when you can’t monitor him.
Not Hungry?
You may notice a difference in your dog’s eating and drinking patterns. In colder temperatures, dogs tend to drink less water, and occasionally they also eat less food. Stay aware of your dog’s food and water intake. If he is drinking less water, make it lukewarm to encourage more consumption.
Potty Problems
Who wants to go outside when it’s rainy and cold? Instead of getting rained on by asking to go outside, some dogs may have “accidents” on the floor, while others simply “hold it” for long periods of time, which can lead to bladder issues. If you notice that your dog has not relieved himself in a while, go outside with him. Teaching a bathroom command, like “hurry up” or “go potty,” can speed up the process and get everyone back indoors as soon as possible.
Exercise!
With shorter days, cold temperatures, and frequent rain, it becomes more difficult to adequately exercise your dog. Exercise is important in your dog’s daily routine, however, no matter the season. Lack of exercise often leads to destructive behavior like chewing, digging, or excessive barking. Remember that a tired dog is a good dog. During rainy times, professional dog walkers and doggie daycare stays are great options to help your pup get out and play.
Indoor Play
On days when you just can’t get outside with your dog, try some fun activities at home. Bubbles, Laser Pointer, or Hide-and-Seek games are great ways to stimulate your dog without leaving the house. While you are away at work, stuffed kongs, goodie ships, and buster cubes will keep your pup occupied for hours. Just be aware of the extra treats and goodies you are giving your dog and cut back on regular meal portions to compensate. Increased calories combined with decreased exercise can add up quickly to additional pounds.
Brighten up
If you take your dog out for a walk in the early morning or late evening, pay attention to your visibility. Reflective dog collars or harnesses, or small lights that attach to your dog’s collar, will make it easier for others to spot him. Reflective clothing is a good idea for you, too. Some retractable leashes have flashlights built in, allowing you to see better on dark days (or nights).
In short, keeping regular routines during the winter months can be challenging with your dog, but establishing some new habits and getting the right clothing and supplies on hand can keep the seasonal inconvenience to a minimum.
Kelly Helsing is owner and head trainer at Downtown Dogs, a daycare and boarding facility in San Jose. She lives with husband and co-owner, Mark, two children – Olivia and Spencer, and two dogs – Logan and Xena.
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